"I suppose rents are high in New York," said Solon Talbot awkwardly.
"Yes, and our means are small. How is my sister Mary?"
"Quite well, thank you."
"Did she send me any message?"
"She did not know I was going to call."
"How long it seems since I saw her!" sighed Mrs. Mason.
"I suppose you heard that I was in town."
"Yes; Mark told me."
"I was not sure whether I could call, as I am here on a hurried business errand."
"I am glad you have called. I wished to ask you about father's estate."